Details, Details, Details!

Almost every bride is looking for unique, yet simple ways to add that all important 'attention to detail' factor at her wedding. As the saying goes, 'it's the little things that mean the most' and are often times the most memorable to wedding guests. Here is a list of some of my favorite ways to add a little extra something to your wedding design:

• Use chair covers or ribbon sashes! Too often I see beautiful table arrangements with gorgeous linens and then look down and see plain looking banquet chairs. One of the easiest ways to add character to a room is to use chair covers with a colored ribbon sash that brings your wedding color scheme together. Or, if you are opting for Chivari chairs as opposed to regular banquet chairs, using a simple ribbon sash around the back of the chair really adds to the overall look of the room! Chair covers with a sash are available from $3.50 - $5.00 per chair here in the Pittsburgh area.
• Personalize your ceremony programs - bind them together using a bright colored ribbon. This is a relatively inexpensive way (especially if you make them yourself at home) to add your own personal touch to your ceremony. For more information about making your own ceremony programs, check out our 'DIY Ceremony Programs' blog from last month!
• Get creative with your guest book! Throw out that traditional guest book where everyone just signs their name in a book - I mean c'mon, when are you ever going to sit down and read that?! My advice is to opt for something a little less traditional - there are a number of guest book options out there. Use a matted signature photo frame, a wishing tree, or Polaroid photo guest book!
• Personalize and design your own wedding stationary - you can design everything from your programs to seating cards to menu cards! Add a monogram to your stationary and get creative with your color scheme.
• Create your own table #'s for the reception. Don't get stuck using those boring plastic black and white table cards - make them yourself at home using a heavy card stock in a color that matches your wedding!
• Decorate your place card table - a light scattering of rose petals or even a simple floral arrangement on this table can really add something extra to your reception.
• Add crystals or pearls to your bridal bouquets. This has become very popular in recent years and definitely gives an added pop to your bouquets! Ask your florist what they offer...most florists will have a variety of options to choose from.
• Instead of favors or as an addition to favors, create guest or 'welcome' bags especially for your out of town guests. You can be as creative as you want in this area! Infact, I have so many ideas for gift bags that it warrants it's own blog - so stay tuned for that in the next few days! :)

I could literally go on for hours on ways to add a personal, yet simple and inexpensive touch to your wedding! Whatever you choose for your wedding, take the time to think through how you envision your wedding day and plan ahead. The little 'extras' should all tie into your wedding theme and can be a fun project for your bridesmaids and you to work together on!